THE decision to move Dorking Library away from its current home at Pippbrook House has been criticised amid claims people should have been consulted on the issue.

Surrey County Council last month announced its plans to relocate to a town centre site with more space, after its lease on the library’s current home below the council offices in Reigate Road ran out at the beginning of this year.

Councillors said there is strong local opposition to this and criticised a lack of public consultation, but the council said it would be able to offer better services from a larger venue, and more accessible to people in the town centre.

Pippbrook House itself is owned by Mole Valley District Council, and has been subject to public consultation on its future use. One option being considered is converting it into housing.